See raptors returned to the wild

MEDIA ALERT
For Immediate Release

Sept. 8, 2008

Contact:
Brian Graves, Communications Manager, 612-624-6228            

What:
Fall Raptor Release

When: 
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Event: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Releases at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Where:
Carpenter Nature Center, 12805 St. Croix Trail, Hastings, Minn. Carpenter Nature Center is located on County Road 21 (St. Croix Trail), a mile and a half north of Highway 10.

Why:
Presented by The Raptor Center and Carpenter Nature Center, the Fall Raptor Release is sponsored by 3M Foundation in celebration of 3M Cottage Grove’s 60^th Anniversary. The event is free. Visitors are reminded that pets are not allowed at the event.  During this exciting celebration, participants can:

• Watch in awe as raptors are returned to the wild.
• Observe and photograph The Raptor Center’s eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls up close and personal. 
• Listen to music by Dean Magraw. 
• Participate in children’s activities and educational displays throughout the day.

For more information, please contact The Raptor Center at 612-624-9753.

Background:
Established in 1974 within the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota, The Raptor Center is internationally known for pioneering and perfecting techniques in avian medicine and surgery, restoring the peregrine falcon in the Midwest, and advancing the health of raptors and other avian species through ongoing research. In addition to training veterinarians and veterinary professionals from all over the world, The Raptor Center encourages the public to protect raptors and the world we share through school, community, and Web-based education programs, and rehabilitation and release of injured raptors.

The Fall Raptor Release is co-sponsored by Carpenter Nature Center, whose mission is to develop and enhance appreciation for the natural world through quality environmental education, conservation practices, and outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages and capabilities.

Photo and video opportunities will also be available at the event.

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